This manual is a directive for Architecture and Engineering design professionals for the planning and design of the drainage, waste, vent, water distribution, storm drainage, natural gas and fuel gas, medical gas, medical vacuum, and specialty systems at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. VA facilities have a wide range of occupants including patients, employees, volunteers, and visitors. An important mission of VA is to provide healthcare to Veterans who, in some cases, have severe disabilities, including sight, hearing, and mobility.

This VA HVAC Design Manual for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare Facilities is the only detailed design requirements manual for VA. The original 2017 version has been edited several times since first publication to keep the information updated and synchronized with the latest industry trends. VA lessons learned, collected from VHA clinicians and operations personnel, have been incorporated as well. The November 1, 2021 revision of this manual includes high priority changes recommended by the VA CFM/VHA HVAC committee in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.